SVG ventures|THRIVE partners with IFA to advance plant nutrition and sustainability in fertilizers

SVG Ventures|THRIVE, a leader in AgriFoodTech investment, has entered into a strategic partnership with the International Fertilizer Association (IFA) to foster innovation in plant nutrition and sustainable agricultural practices. As part of the collaboration, IFA will join THRIVE as a Platinum Partner for the 2025 THRIVE Global Impact Challenge and Summit, marking a key step in the organizations’ shared efforts to address the future of global food systems.

IFA, which represents nearly 500 members across over 80 countries, advocates for responsible plant nutrition solutions. Its mission is to improve crop yields, support soil health, and reduce the environmental footprint of fertilizer use. By partnering with SVG Ventures|THRIVE, IFA gains access to a global network of startups and innovation programs that align with its sustainability goals.

A major aspect of the partnership is the launch of the ‘Cultivate Challenge,’ set to take place in Barcelona on April 1st. The initiative will focus on solutions for energy efficiency in ammonia production, novel phosphate fertilizers, and nutrient use efficiency tracking. The challenge is designed to identify disruptive technologies that can improve agricultural productivity while reducing environmental impact.

John Hartnett, Founder and CEO of SVG Ventures|THRIVE, noted that the collaboration with IFA would accelerate the development and adoption of technologies critical to improving agricultural productivity and addressing global food security. The partnership aims to leverage IFA’s industry expertise and THRIVE’s innovation ecosystem to support sustainability across the agriculture sector.

IFA’s CEO, Alzbeta Klein, emphasized the role of innovation in addressing the environmental impact of fertilizers. She pointed out that while fertilizers are essential for feeding the world’s growing population, their production and use must evolve to meet sustainability targets. Klein expressed optimism that this partnership would support IFA’s mission to integrate innovation into the fertilizer value chain.

This collaboration between SVG Ventures|THRIVE and IFA underscores a broader trend of the agricultural sector increasingly focusing on sustainability and technological innovation. With THRIVE’s platform supporting over 12,000 startups globally, the partnership is positioned to make a significant impact on the adoption of technologies that enhance soil health and agricultural efficiency.

Founded in 1927, IFA is the sole global association for the fertilizer industry, working with a wide range of stakeholders from producers to agtech startups. The partnership with SVG Ventures|THRIVE marks a continued effort by IFA to innovate within the fertilizer sector and support sustainable agricultural practices worldwide.